I’ve been using Gamvar gloss varnish, applying it with a brush.
I am thinking of trying a spray varnish, but I do like the thick deep look of the gamvar gloss. Any input on using spray varnish would be appreciated, especially if you also have experience with Gamvar gloss.
Comments
No Gamvar exp. Always use spray varnish. Examine painting for dust, pet hair etc. Secure on an easel or frame. Overspray side to side ie reverse direction off the painting. Overlap previous run. I prefer painting to be vertical for spraying, otherwise spray pattern can be blobby. Clear nozzle by inverting can before applying. Use a paint/volatiles rated mask.Three light coats better than one with running drips. Cross direction on sequential coats. Allow say a half hour between coats. Pick a calm evening with no insects around. Leave outside for about twelve hours to vent the volatiles. Good time to give any info on the back a protective cover.
Denis
Yes I have experience with both.
I didnt find the Gamvar gloss to be very glossy (though a friend told me it was), but im fine with that as the spray I use is.
Depending on the painting I will choose which is best.
Windsor & Newton Professional Gloss is the spray I use. I agree with Denis on doing thin coats, its too easy to mistakenly apply too thick, so go sparingly.
I always find varnishing a bit tricky. There are always things floating in the air that we only notice if a shaft of sunlight is illuminating them.
Those little blighters, along with the odd tiny hair can miraculously appear during the varnishing process.
Once varnished I tend to quickly slide the painting into a box, ie if a small piece then a cereal box.
I tape it up so that anything floating in the air will hopefully not cling to its surface.
I have W&N gloss varnish and Art Spectrum retouch varnish.
Have to add that I’m not particular about which brand I buy. Varnish is pretty simple resin and solvent.
Denis
There’s grumbacher hyplar. Not sure what hyplar is. I guess a resin. I think it is used only for acrylic paints. It does contains acetone and heptane.
Gamvar is made of synthetic resin. Gamvar says it can be used sooner than other resins. ??? But I don’t see any spray version.
I’m not so sure what spray varnish to use after reading about these.
It claims to be acid free; fine colourless varnish; use on oil and acrylic paintings; 2 coats for final varnish; can be removed with distilled turpentine if desired.
I have a gloss can and a matt can.
Exactly. Product availability and brand changes even from store to store in the same city.
Yes, there are hundreds of brands to choose from.
Look for a non-yellowing, gloss, pressure pack that has a removable varnish.
Denis